معرفی
Rafael Mejia-Alvarez is a Professor at Midwestern University, where he holds appointments in the Chicago College of Optometry, College of Graduate Studies - Illinois, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, and College of Dental Medicine-Illinois. His academic career spans multiple disciplines, including Physiology, Biomedical Sciences, and Cardiovascular Research.
- Ph.D. from Baylor College of Medicine/CINVESTAV, USA (1990)
- M.D. from Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, USA (1982)
His research focuses on Calcium Signaling in excitable cells, particularly the mechanisms of Ca²⁺ release via Ryanodine Receptors (RyRs) and Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptors (IP3Rs). He investigates their roles in cardiac excitation-contraction coupling, arrhythmogenic intracellular channelopathies, and the antiarrhythmic effects of scorpion venom peptides. Techniques include immunocytochemistry, electrophysiology, and pulsed local-field fluorescence microscopy to study intact beating hearts.
Recent publications (2023–2005) highlight his work on Ca²⁺ signaling dynamics in cardiac cells, genetic mutations in IP3Rs linked to arrhythmias, and innovations in imaging methodologies. His multidisciplinary approach bridges molecular physiology, pharmacology, and translational medicine.
- Teaching Interests: Courses include Neuromuscular & Cardiovascular Physiology, Obesity & Cardiovascular Diseases, Cardiac Arrhythmias & Channelopathies, and Precision Medicine in Cardiovascular Systems across multiple academic schools.
- Grants: Recipient of a 2023 MWU Intramural Grant for research on IP3R2-mediated Ca²⁺ Signaling in Ventricular Myocytes.
